The app only uses CPU/battery when listening to a podcast or downloading an episode.
The app uses on average between 1 and 2% of battery per listening hour. Enabling audio effects like playback speed or skip silence will increase the CPU and battery usage slightly. Same when streaming and/or listening via a BT receiver/headset.
When playing a downloaded file, pausing playback will stop any cpu/battery usage. When streaming, the modem will keep the connection active while playback is paused. You will need to press on the toolbar 'X' button to close the player and the connection.
If for some reasons you experience an unusually high battery usage please go into the device Settings/Apps/Podcast Addict screen and Clear the cache. If that doesn't help please send me an email.